"I think Sanchez is completely and utterly his own man. We have seen that with his actions last season.

"He is a winner, a warrior, a fighter, a player we all truly admire and we'd love to keep him but if his heart is on trying to get the same wages as people like Messi and Ronaldo, it's not going to materialise.

"If they have to sell him it would be harsh, painful with only one year remaining but they may have to consider this.

Nicholas said: "It is a big statement of intent from Arsenal. The statement is to say to Sanchez and others we are serious to get back challenging for the title and we are serious about getting back into the Champions League again.